Native American Religion

Native American religion is peculiar, to say the least. In most religions, there is a central belief that everyone in that religion follows; however, Native Americans do not have beliefs cast in stone that everyone must to adhere to. In fact, it is quite difficult to refer to the beliefs of different Native American tribes as one religion, although, there are many similarities between them. Perhaps, it is more appropriate to separate each Native American tribe’s belief system into a different sect of a common religion, which they share. In general, Native Americans, themselves, do not refer to their spiritual practices as a religion, rather a way of life and essential part of their survival. As a result, most Native American practices revolve …show more content…
Storytelling, smudging, music, sweat lodges, pipe ceremonies, and the use of herbs are all common practices used in or as Native American healing rituals, which strive to gain harmony and balance with the spirits. (Rybak, 2009) The significance of herbs in Native American healing rituals cannot be overstated. For centuries, Native Americans have observed their environment and found the parts of plants, which contribute to the healing process. However, Native Americans do not believe that the benefits of the herbs come solely from the plants. In fact, most Native Americans agree that it is the spiritual connection, which the healer has with the plants, that is the main source of their power. Tribal healers believe that the herbs purify and bring balance to an individual’s spiritual, emotional, and physical state. (Ryback, …show more content…
Like many other cultures, the Native American people have used music to stimulate the healing process. In Native American tribes, the drum is a sacred instrument because of its round shape and rhythmic beat, which symbolize the earth and the heartbeat of its inhabitants. Drumming and singing are essential aspects of the healing process in many cases. People within the tribes believe that the music is soothing to their spirit and that music connects the past, present, and future. (Rybak, 2009) Cleary, healing rituals are essential in the Native American religion. In their culture, Native Americans look toward these rituals to connect with the spirits and relieve themselves of pain, whether it is spiritual, physical, or emotional pain they suffer from. It is safe to say that the rituals Native Americans perform are quite interesting; the passed down knowledge is of the utmost importance to Native Americans and they continue to practice the rituals, in order to cultivate a relationship with the spirits and be